The recent meeting of the Government and Public Affairs Committee of the California Board of Chiropractic Examiners on December 16, 2024, focused on several key topics that could significantly impact the chiropractic profession in the state. The discussions highlighted the importance of strategic planning, outreach, and collaboration among committee members.

One of the primary topics was the upcoming election for the committee chair, scheduled for October 2026. Members emphasized the need for early preparation and active participation from potential candidates. This proactive approach aims to ensure that nominees are well-informed and engaged in the committee's activities leading up to the election.

The committee also reviewed the effectiveness of a recent mock hearing, which was deemed beneficial for understanding procedural dynamics. Members suggested incorporating similar mock hearings into the calendar as placeholders to facilitate ongoing training and preparation for future meetings.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the strategic plan objective aimed at enhancing outreach efforts. The board had previously adopted a strategic plan in 2022, which included a commitment to increasing awareness of the chiropractic profession and fostering relationships with various stakeholders. The committee is now tasked with creating diverse outreach plans to reach underrepresented groups and enhance the profession's visibility.

Tammy Pitto, a key speaker during the meeting, outlined the need for a comprehensive communication plan targeting different audiences, including the general public, chiropractic patients, licensees, and educational institutions. The goal is to ensure that outreach efforts are not only effective but also inclusive, addressing the need for diversity within the profession.

The committee acknowledged that while there have been intentions to implement outreach strategies in 2023, progress has been slower than anticipated. Members expressed a desire to refine the existing outreach plan and incorporate new ideas to better align with the amended strategic objectives.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the committee's commitment to enhancing the chiropractic profession's outreach and engagement strategies. As the board prepares for upcoming elections and works to implement its strategic plan, the focus remains on collaboration, proactive participation, and inclusivity in outreach efforts. The next steps will involve further discussions on refining the outreach plan and ensuring that all committee members are aligned in their objectives moving forward.